The Italian steel producers association Federacciai, together with 14 member companies, has submitted an expression of interest for the cold-rolling facilities of the former Ilva steelworks in Taranto, Italy, according to Italian media reports.
The companies involved include Arvedi, Duferco, Feralpi, Marcegaglia, ABS, Acciaierie Venete, Advanced Steel Solutions of Asonext Group, Acciaierie Beltrame, Alfa Acciai, Compagnia Siderurgica Italiana, Ferriera Valsabbia, Lucchini, ORI Martin and Rubiera Special Steel.
Expression of interest limited to cold-rolling operations
The expression of interest is limited to the Taranto plant's cold-rolling operations and does not cover the hot-end facilities, which are currently scheduled to shut down on October 26 following a ruling by the Milan Court of Appeal.
Meanwhile, the possible closure of the hot-end operations continues to raise concerns regarding employment and the plant's supply chain, with contractors indicating that they could initiate collective dismissal procedures. Indian steelmaker Jindal also remains interested in the former Ilva assets as a whole, including the hot-end operations, and has recently updated its proposal.
Italian government calls for joint proposal
The latest development follows discussions involving trade unions, industry associations and related companies convened by Italy's Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy (MIMIT). During the talks, minister Adolfo Urso called on Italian companies to join forces and submit a proposal for the former Ilva operations.
According to Federacciai President Antonio Gozzi, Federacciai and the participating companies have informed the government of their availability to intervene, although certain conditions would have to be met before any industrial involvement could proceed. He also stated that appealing the Milan Court of Appeal's ruling would not provide a solution to the immediate situation, as proceedings before the Supreme Court could take at least two years.
